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  • Title: [Accidents linked to traditional treatment of convulsions of infants and children in Benin].
    Author: Ayivi B, Dan V.
    Journal: Dev Sante; 1990 Feb; (85):25-9. PubMed ID: 12316207.
    Abstract:
    Convulsions represent a frequent pediatric emergency in southern Benin and Nigeria, where they are estimated to occur in 15% of hospitalizations. The principal cause is fever during a malarial attack. The health team provides symptomatic treatment and searches for the etiology so that adequate treatment can be provided. For the family faced with convulsions, the major concern is to bring the child out of the convulsive state at almost any price. The 3 products most commonly used by parents and other caretakers are cod liver oil, honey, and lemon, which are administered orally often in combination in hopes of provoking vomiting or stimulating the child to regain consciousness. Other substances sometimes administered include cow or cat urine, garlic or onion, and rubbing alcohol. Articles such as spoons or sticks or fingers may be used in attempts to loosen the jaws and avoid blockages. Flagellation may be used to revive the child. Scarification or fumigation may be done to combat sorcery or chase away evil spirits. A hand or leg may be plunged into boiling water or fire to revive the child from a postconvulsive coma. Use of these techniques explains the high rate of mortality or morbidity following convulsions, Morbid states induced by traditional treatments of convulsions may include false bronchial route, ocular or cutaneous burns buccal lesions, injuries to the nasal cavities or lips, and edema of the cheeks. A survey of parents indicated that 37% of families interviewed had been present at a convulsive crisis of their children or siblings. Convulsions were considered a natural ailment by only 55% and a sign of sorcery and malediction by 36%. 84% of parents surveyed knew about possible sequelae of traditional treatments and 40% used them. 90% of families knew about possible sequelae of traditional treatments but explained them by the seriousness of the convulsions or sorcery. 69% felt that more adequate treatment should be found. The best preventive measures would be to prevent malaria and fevers which are the main causes of convulsions. Parents should be taught to substitute intrarectal administration of diazepam if needed and that most crises terminate spontaneously within a few minutes. Children with convulsions should be placed in the lateral position to avoid inhalation of secretions, and should be brought to the nearest health center.
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